Report highlights negative effects of technology on Native youth in Minnesota

The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community released findings from a first-of-its-kind report examining how technology and digital media use affect the well-being of Native youth in Minnesota. According to MPR News, about 90% of respondents said that addressing technology use is more important than other issues facing Native youth and that its impact — particularly on physical and mental health — is overwhelmingly negative.

The research, conducted by LiveMore ScreenLess and funded through IndigeFit Kids, surveyed 242 adults who work with Native youth across 42 Minnesota counties, according to MPR News. Respondents cited limited culturally relevant resources, competing classroom demands and rapid technological change as barriers. Ashley Cornforth, SMSC secretary-treasurer and co-chair of IndigeFit Kids, said the findings will help guide culturally meaningful strategies to support Native youth well-being